Winter tires are important, but only for people who live in places like Alaska. Right? Actually, no. Follow along as we set the record straight about winter tires and share with you what makes them so safe! You'll see that winter tires are way more than chunks of rubber.
#1: Winter tires can prove safer than all-season tires.
"Wait, whaa?" Aren't all-season tires great ALL THE TIME? Not necessarily. All-season tires should really be called all-mild-season tires. The rubber used in all-season tires works great—until temperatures really start to drop.
When the thermometer gets into the 40’s, it's time for a tire switch. This is when all-season tires become stiff and stiff tires have decreased traction, which is not something you want on winter roads! Winter tires are made with special rubber that actually works best in cold temperatures.
How do you store tires between seasons? Clean ‘em, bag ‘em, stack ‘em! Learn more with our four-step tire storage guide. >
#2: No snow? You may still need winter tires.
While the tread on winter tires is great for snowy, icy, and slushy conditions, investing in winter tires is a good idea whether or not you’re going to be experiencing such conditions! Remember that the rubber in winter tires stays soft and pliable when the weather cools off, unlike the rubber in other tires. Without winter tires your car's performance will be compromised in the cold, even on dry roads.
#3: Their tread pattern curbs slipping & sliding.
Winter tires have a single directional tread pattern that helps them excel in wet conditions. These deep, one-way grooves help prevent hydroplaning by efficiently pumping the water through the tread. Moisture is essentially pushed out and away from the tire so your wheel can make solid contact with dry ground.
#4: Winter tire pressure needs to be checked regularly.
Your tire pressure can decrease drastically during the colder months of the year, with air pressure decreasing as temperatures fall. This decreased tire pressure can result in reduced traction, handling, and durability—things you don’t want to compromise! Check your tire pressure regularly when it’s cold outside and make sure it meets the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. Checking tire pressure is so easy, you can actually do it before your usual coffee run in the morning!
#5: Winter tires don’t have to be expensive.
Your safety may be priceless, but your tires don’t have to be. There are plenty of winter tire options that are incredibly affordable, including Blizzak tires, the toughest winter tire from Bridgestone and Winterforce, Firestone's top snow tire. These guys offer enhanced grip, flex, and bite, at a price your budget won’t gawk at. Get real-time, hassle-free tire pricing online and stop by the store of your choice for a quick installation. We’re in the business of saving you time and money.
#6: Get the right winter tires at Firestone Complete Auto Care.
Winter tires are incredibly important, yet consistently misunderstood. Of all the crazy ideas about winter tires, the craziest one is that they’ll cost you an arm and a leg. The truth is, winter tires don’t have to be overpriced or take forever to install! With Firestone Complete Auto Care’s great selection and Priced Right Guarantee, you can drive easy knowing that you’re taking care of your family, car, and budget. Don’t wait until the first frost—schedule your appointment today!
